The Neighbors’ Shame: Myanmar’s Generals Find Comfort Among ASEAN’s Elites

The recent visit of Min Aung Hlaing, leader of Myanmar’s oppressive regime, to Thailand serves as a stark reminder of the failures of regional diplomacy and the morally bankrupt nature of some of our neighbors. As the war in Myanmar continues to ravage the country, leaving thousands dead and millions displaced, it is shocking to see ASEAN’s leaders embracing the generals-turned-politicians responsible for this humanitarian crisis.

The visit marks a significant milestone in Min Aung Hlaing’s quest for legitimacy, facilitated by the international community’s ambivalence towards his regime. Despite being ostracized since the 2021 coup, Myanmar’s generals are finding warm welcomes among their neighbors, with Thailand being the latest to roll out the red carpet. This is not just a matter of diplomatic niceties; it indicates that some ASEAN states are willing to turn a blind eye to the regime’s atrocities in exchange for trade and strategic interests.

Thailand’s re-engagement with Myanmar is a calculated move to preserve regional stability and promote economic interests, rather than upholding democratic values or protecting human lives. The joint statement released by the two countries on Thursday omitted any mention of ceasing violence against civilians, revealing their priorities. ASEAN’s leaders are more concerned with maintaining regional stability and advancing economic interests than addressing the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar.

The international community’s response to the crisis in Myanmar has been inadequate. The United States has imposed sanctions on some regime figures, but these measures have not deterred them from committing atrocities. The United Nations has issued strongly worded statements condemning the regime’s actions, but they have largely fallen on deaf ears.

China has played a significant role in enabling Myanmar’s military junta, providing arms and diplomatic cover. This is a classic case of realpolitik, where great powers prioritize their strategic interests over human rights and democratic values. India, too, has been criticized for its close ties to the regime, despite being one of the few countries that has spoken out against the coup.

The consequences of ASEAN’s inaction are dire. The war in Myanmar shows no signs of abating, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The humanitarian crisis is spiraling out of control, with thousands of civilians displaced and many more dying in airstrikes on schools, hospitals, and other civilian targets. This is a grim reminder that the international community’s failure to act decisively has emboldened the regime, allowing them to commit atrocities with impunity.

ASEAN’s leaders must be held accountable for their actions and forced to take concrete steps towards resolving the crisis in Myanmar. This means imposing meaningful sanctions on the regime, supporting democratic forces, and providing humanitarian aid to those affected by the war. By engaging with Myanmar’s generals, ASEAN’s leaders risk being complicit in their crimes.

The visit of Min Aung Hlaing to Thailand is a stark reminder that regional diplomacy has failed. ASEAN’s leaders must confront the uncomfortable truth that their actions have emboldened a regime responsible for one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent history. They owe it to the people of Myanmar, and to themselves, to do better.

The clock is ticking. Will ASEAN’s leaders finally find the courage to stand up against the Myanmar generals, or will they continue to turn a blind eye to their atrocities? The international community cannot afford to wait any longer for them to act.